Wilder is back in action for the first time since defeating Bermane Stiverne for the belt back in January at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, with a hand injury preventing him from returning sooner.

After answering several questions that his critics had about him, the American will now celebrate his achievement with a homecoming on Saturday night given that the bout is taking place in Alabama.

While many expect him to make short work of his opponent, particularly as soon as he is able to land a big right, Molina was clearly not in the mood to be intimidated in his surroundings as he gave plenty back to his rival as they faced off.

Wilder will be expected to face the likes of Wladimir Klitschko and Tyson Fury either later this year or in early 2016, but he will be looking to make a statement on Saturday with another explosive performance to give further hope that he is the American saviour when it comes to the heavyweight division.

The 29-year-old is a strong favourite to end the bout early, but Molina means business despite the fact that few give him a realistic chance of dethroning the champ.

Based on the video below, things could get interesting when it’s show time…